The best camping in Anchor River State Recreation Area, AK

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Discover the rugged beauty of Anchor River State Recreation Area.  

The best camping in Anchor River State Recreation Area, AK

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Anchor River State Recreation Area adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Seaside Farm

100%
(126)
16mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Homer, AK
Seaside Farm is a 30 acre, magical, park like farm on the shores of Kachemak Bay, just outside of Homer, a few miles down from the Kilcher Homestead where I grew up in the 1940's! . Now a song bird sanctuary, with trails, lawns, gardens, trees, hay fields, and a private beach, cabins, a clover camping meadow, it was also once part of an original Alaska pioneer homestead. Although an organic farm, with hay fields, pastures, farm buildings and raspberry patch, it is also the home of hundreds of songbirds, moose, coyotes, wild hares, flocks of sandhill cranes, two sweet Morgan Horses, and an assortment of chickens. I love sharing my farm and home with travelers, and visitors seeking peace, nature, wildlife, walks on pristine beaches, and connecting with nature, in a real Alaska, original, and non touristy setting. This property has three different types accommodations: Rustic, cozy cabins (no indoor running water), a big field for tent campers only, and a few spaces reserved for 4 wheel drive vans , and similar small vehicle camping, including rooftop tents and occasionally a small pop up trailer. If you prefer camping away from the tourist crowds, you will find our soft clover meadows, surrounded by green trees and well kept lawns, a deluxe and memorable experience. The beach is a short walk down the trail, where its peaceful and private, with no motorized vehicles or noisy crowds, only the sound of the seagulls, and the waves. Van campers have a few special areas to park their vehicles, most with a stunning view of the glaciers and mountains. There is limited parking and turnaround space, and we like our farm peaceful and not too crowded to provide a special rural experience to all who visit this magical farm. It helps to call or text before you arrive to make sure we are on site and can help you with parking and other details! There are three cabins sprinkled throughout the property. Two are off grid, close to the beach, private and magical, with wood stoves. All cabins are able to use the main farm lodge amenities, just a few minutes walk away and have their own outhouses..all with amazing views! You can walk on the beach from the main lodge parking area, there is a covered camping pavilion available to all guests, a communal campfire spot and bbq grill, lovely maintained walking trails and meadows, and even wifi! We allow most types of dogs, but do ask you to contact us before booking with us, so we can let you know our rules before you travel. All dogs must be well behaved, social, on leashes and at owner's side at all times to protect our trusting wildlife from accidental harm, like our baby pheasants, moose, bunnies, and songbird nests! TOURS OPTION As the eldest of the Kilcher clan (yes, the homestead family portrayed on the "Alaska The Last Frontier" tv series), and when time allows, I'm open to give a special tour of the unique and historic Kilcher Family Homestead and original sod roofed, log cabin museum. Available only by special prior arrangement for an extra fee (donation to the museum)
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$25
 / night

Hidden Springs Homestead

7.9mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Anchor Point, AK
Hidden Springs Homestead is the remote, far NE corner of the original Homer Smith homestead patent. We are 14 miles from Homer Alaska by road. The property abuts a million acres of remote Alaska wilderness. The log cabin was built in 1973 out of local Lutz Spruce. It has large green lawn rhubarb and berry gardens, sod roofed sauna and out house. We offer one very private campsite for tent, campervan, or truck camper (flat gravel back in site). A rustic outhouse is available for your use. Please follow the outhouse rules. No potable water. Additionally, 15-amp electric service is available for an additional fee. Because we are adjacent to the Alaskan wilderness we can have wildlife around. No hunting is allowed on the property and brown and black bears, wolves, moose, porcupine, lynx and other wild creatures are around. We will brief you in person on avoiding encounters while moving about in this amazing place. Consider carrying bear spray deterrent when walking/hiking/camping anywhere in rural Alaska.
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$38
 / night

Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

100%
(22)
20mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Lodging · Homer, AK
A few things that make my place unique: My 5 acres is part of the famous 620-acre Kilcher Homestead, as seen on “Alaska the Last Frontier” TV show. I am the 7th of the 8 children; Atz and Otto are my brothers. There is a special feeling here vibrating in the land, and why our parents picked this spot. Full outdoor kitchen with all you need to cook and wash up; BBQ, hotplate, pure drinking water, spices, pots/pans/dishes etc. The atmosphere feels so pure, so silent, so wild yet comfortable. Drive-in access sometimes, or have to walk 15 minutes, and no issues with mosquitoes!!! You get to meet me and maybe other family members as you cruise around. Homer is 35 minutes away, with oodles of things to do there: great restaurants, a lap pool, fun shopping, etc. We have quite good cell reception here. Lots of options to enjoy your stay!
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$55
 / night

Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

96%
(38)
30mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents · Clam Gulch, AK
Learn more about this land: This Clam Gulch 5.5 acre property offers Bluff tent camping in two locations:  Campsite 1 The Meadows, a very large meadow overlooking Cook Inlet and Campsite 3 The Sweet Spot, a secluded  meadow with an unbelieveable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt .   Wake up and watch the surf roll in from 200' up.  The only thing you will hear is birds and surf.  The Site 1 The Meadows, is a very large meadow which is kept mowed.  It is accessed by foot on a loop trail from the parking area (the Moose Trail) or from parking near the Pink Shed.  It is close to the outdoor table and gazebo allowed for guest use. This site can accomodate three tents. Site 3 The Sweet Spot  is the newest campsite.  It is also accessed by the Moose Trail, and has an unbelievable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt.  Have coffee and watch the sun rise. It is about 100 yards from the parking area Trails to the meadows are maintained and marked. Campers may  use the gazebo, picnic table, swing, charcoal barbecue, and the granite table located on the Bluff near the Owner's cabin, next to the gazebo. Vehicles must park in  designated campsite parking areas, and campers take the short walk to Site 1 or Site 3 camping meadows.   There is a Porta-Potty Near the Bluff Cabin.  There is also a first aid kit.   Campers please bring your own water.   We recommend 8 gallons for two days.  Closest potable free water for refills is Rocky's in Kasilof.  Volcano and ocean views to die for! This is approximately 3.5 hours from Anchorage. Clam Gulch Beach is 4 miles, Deep Creek Beach and Ninilchik Beach is 14 miles.  Anchor Point and Homer are less than an hour's drive.
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$75
 / night

The Bluff Cabin at Clam Gulch

100%
(12)
30mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Clam Gulch, AK
The Bluff Cabin at Clam Gulch is located at Magical Camping! The cabin is 12' x 24' with a great layout. The cabin includes a kitchen area, a full size murphy bed that looks out over Cook Inlet and Mt Reboubt, and a sweet one burner Jotul wood stove for heat and cooking. The cabin comes with enough firewood for a two-night stay. Wake up and have French press coffee in bed looking at the eagles fly by, riding the thermals. This is the dream romantic getaway! Hear only the surf crashing, and birds!! There is a porta potty located between two outbuildings near the cabin. Please park in front of the Bluff Cabin. Guests will enjoy the grassy bluff and the built-in fire pit, the gazebo and the granite table for cooking and washing. There is a charcoal barbeque available for guests, bring your own charcoal. The cabin is dry and non-electric. There is no wifi, but has cellular connectivity. The cabin will be supplied with 8 gallons of potable water, but guests can always bring extra, or refill water at the Kasilof Mercantile just 7 miles away. They also have groceries! The closest gas station is also 7 miles away in Kasilof. Clam Gulch Beach Access is just 4 miles away, with miles and miles of beach to walk! Ninilchik is 14 miles down the road where guests can find the Old Ninilchik Beach Access, or the Deep Creek Beach Access, and also the Three Bears Grocery Story and Roscoe's Pizza.
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$99
 / night

Drop Anchor AK Seaview Glamping

100%
(4)
15mi from Anchor River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Homer, AK
The Drop Anchor offers guest Sea and Glacier Views from the comfort of their Luxury Bell Canvas Tents on their Private Large Decks. Guests may select tents with a King or Queen Size mattress, on sturdy off the floor wooden bed frames. Our Comfortable Beds offer, Beautiful Soft Quality Bedding, Down Comforters, Extra Blankets and Loads of Pillows all in our Custom White Duck Co. Dreamy Sapphire Blue Bell Tents We intentionally selected our beautiful blue tents with purpose, to block out Alaska’s Midnight Summer Sun assuring a great night's sleep. Tents have-Rechargeable Lanterns, end tables, dining table w/chairs, luggage space, soft rugs, towels, heaters (optional) Private deck w/adirondack chairs w/pillows and blankets, fire pit and picnic table w/9' umbrella, parking w/Wagons to haul your gear. Guests are Greeted upon arrival to a: Special Welcome Beverage a Snack Platter + Bottled Water + Starter Firewood. We're conveniently located near Homer's Art Galleries, Eateries, Breweries & Shopping as you drive out to Homer's Spit & all it has to offer. Convenience comes with our main road & bike path which offers some noise. The Bike Path at the front of our property makes for an easy Sea & Glacier View walk or bike ride to downtown in just minutes. Currently, we offer a Shared Indoor Restroom w/flushing toilet, sink & Outdoor Shower The Bathhouse Expansion expected Summer 2026 + The New Yurt & The Kids New Mini Market Completed The Common space w/the restroom, offers guests extra indoor lounge area (a deck w/views offer more space) we have a Fridge/Freezer, a couch & dining area, Coffee/Tea/Breakfast Stations, Hot/Cold Water Dispenser, Toaster Oven, Microwave, Dishes, spices/condiments all basic kitchen needs. Covered Outdoor Propane Grill Station fully equipped, We have Seasonal Garden, Fruit Trees, Berries, Fresh eggs. Pack your Clothes & Food Preference, we offer the rest. Loan Library, crib, extra beds, canoe, bikes, lifevest, coolers, games, books, common outdoor areas, playfort, swings, we Accommodate Groups & Events. Our family friendly property consists of our kids, Nana, dog, ducks/chickens & wildlife. We are all here to enhance guests stay.
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$108
 / night

Other options near Anchor River State Recreation Area

The best camping in Anchor River State Recreation Area, AK guide

Overview

About

One fish, two fish, catch fish, cook fish! Time to hook a big old King Salmon in the Anchor River State Recreation Area. Located just 16 miles north of the artsy enclave of Homer, this 213-acre state park is located in the jaw-dropping Kenai Peninsula. Here you’ll enjoy Alaska in the raw with salty sea breezes and mesmerizing vistas of snow-capped mountains. What’s more is Anchor River is Alaska’s only major steelhead stream accessible by road, and offers plenty of campsites. Time to grab those waders and boots and put those muscles to use. 'Cause honey, you’re fishing for your dinner!

Notable campgrounds

  • Coho Campground: A serene retreat for anglers and nature lovers alike, with easy access to river fishing.
  • Steelhead Campground: Perfect for families seeking a blend of outdoor fun and comfort in the wilderness.
  • Halibut Campground: Offers stunning views and a chance to spot wildlife right from your campsite.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can be your ticket to adventure.
  • Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a quieter experience and easier reservations.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The best time to visit Anchor River State Recreation Area is during the summer months, from late May to early September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. Winter can be harsh, with limited access and services, making it less ideal for visitors.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for the latest updates on campground open status and any safety advisories.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly for your outdoor adventures.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with ADA facilities available for those with disabilities.
  • Remember to purchase an annual parking pass if you plan on multiple visits throughout the year.
  • Respect the natural habitat by observing wildlife from a distance and following Leave No Trace principles.
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